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Although the idea of being a florist seems glamorous it
is hard work. The working hours are long and the competition fierce.

Opening an outfit is challenging not to mention the
physical labor and startup cost. Holiday periods are your busiest time
including weddings and special occasions.

Florists around the world are generally small business
outfits with few staff. Startup costs for a small florist business ranges
between $9000 to $55,000 depending on the size and location.

You need adequate capital to lease property, purchase
flowers, staff wages, permits and licenses. To reduce costs you can operate a
one man, home based florist business effectively eliminates property lease.

Let’s look at the business overview, challenges, market
expectations and financial benefits associated with florist business.

The
Florist Industry

Floriculture is huge in developed countries and accounts
for $100 billions in revenue worldwide. The industry is divided into three
sectors namely wholesalers, retailers and flower growers.

Florists deliver the products to customers either in transparent
packages or boxes. Major challenges in the industry are transportation and
flower mortality.

Top players in the flower industry are Germany, United
States of America and United Kingdom. More include Netherlands, Switzerland,
Italy and France. The major producers account for 75% of total flower sold
world wide.

There are also other vibrant markets with long history in
floral business such as India, Australia, South Africa, Thailand and North
America.

What
to Expect as a Florist

Passion for the job is the most important reason to start
a florist business. Learn the trade and develop your knowledge on flowers.

You could attend seminars, become a horticulturist or try
apprentice schemes. Floral arrangement is about creativity, passion and
dedication too the art form.

Be prepared to work long hours in an over saturated
industry. To succeed you need to focus on branding, originality with good
interpersonal skills.

Due to the perishable nature of flowers it is prudent to
purchase inventory based on demand. Another major challenge as a florist is
transportation and waste management.

Other challenges include startup funding, leasehold,
wages and marketing costs. The downside is that the product is not an essential
commodity.

There are peak periods only during festivities such as
Valentines Day and Christmas. Therefore diversifying your service to
accommodate weddings, anniversaries, funerals and corporate events is essential
for business survival.

Develop a unique marketing strategy for sustainable growth.

How to
Develop Floral Skills

Get formal training

On-job knowledge

Apprentice programs

Seminars

Trade show

Books

Online resources

Natural ability

Floral course

Florist
Equipment

Purchase only essential items to do the job. As your
business expands and clientele increase you can add inventory.

Common equipment found in a flower shop is various shaped
vases, buckets, secateurs and stands. Make sure your interior is beautiful, elegant
and flowers are properly arranged.